Jack Butland believes Paul Lambert has ‘re-energised’ Stoke City

Stoke City and England goalkeeper, Jack Butland believes the appointment of Paul Lambert has ‘re-energised’ the Potters as they look to escape relegation.

Lambert replaced Mark Hughes in January and Butland believes the change has benefitted the team.

Speaking at a Literacy day at Newcastle-under-Lyme college, Butland said: “Unfortunately something had to change and the manager has come in with a zero-tolerance, no-nonsense kind of attitude.

“I think too much in the first part of the season we hadn’t hit heights in terms of running stats, in terms of winning tackles and 50-50’s, we’re always on the losing side and that was happening too often.

“He’s come in and re-energised people and given the belief back and really got people playing a lot better which is the be all and end all.”

Butland also spoke of the upcoming World Cup in Russia this year and emphasised that the competition between the English goalkeepers is a good thing.

“For me I’ve always felt that its all in my own hands, if I make sure I’m playing well enough and I’m playing consistently and well then there’s always a chance I’ll be able to get into the squad.

“With Joe [Hart] not playing at the moment it’s kind of opened the door a little bit, he’s still an incredible keeper and England’s number one, but for the others its an opportunity for other players to show what they’re about and try and stake a claim for the number one spot.

“It’s certainly something I’m trying to do and so is everyone else and that’s good because competition can only be a good thing and bring better performances from people.”